Import Export Code (IEC) Registration

Mandatory 10-digit code issued by DGFT for any business importing or exporting goods and services from India. Get your IEC in 3–5 working days.

DGFT Issued
Lifetime Validity
3–5 Days
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What is Import Export Code (IEC)?

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit business identification number mandatory for every business entity that imports or exports goods and services to/from India. It is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. Without an IEC, customs authorities will not allow clearance of any shipment. The IEC is linked to your PAN and has lifetime validity with no renewal requirement. Individuals, companies, LLPs, partnership firms, and proprietorships can all obtain IEC.

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Why You Need IEC

Customs Clearance

Mandatory for clearing import/export shipments through Indian customs.

Bank Payments

Required for receiving foreign payments via SWIFT and sending payments for imports.

Export Benefits

Required to claim export incentives, drawbacks, and MEIS/RODTEP benefits.

Lifetime Validity

IEC never expires and requires no annual renewal — one-time registration.

Eligibility & Requirements

PAN Card of business entity
Aadhaar Card of authorized signatory
Current bank account in business name
Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
Digital Signature Certificate (Class 2/3)
Company Registration / Partnership Deed / GST Certificate
Address proof of business
Email ID and mobile number

How to Get IEC Registration

IEC application is filed on the DGFT portal (dgft.gov.in). The process is 100% online.

1Step 1: Register on DGFT Portal

Create an account on dgft.gov.in with business PAN and email ID.

2Step 2: Fill ANF-2A Application

Complete the IEC application form with business details, director/proprietor information, and bank details.

3Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of PAN card, address proof, cancelled cheque/bank certificate, and DSC.

4Step 4: Pay Application Fee

Pay ₹500 application fee via online payment on the DGFT portal.

5Step 5: IEC Issued

DGFT issues the 10-digit IEC number instantly or within 2–3 working days. Certificate downloadable from portal.

IEC registration is typically completed in 3–5 working days. DGFT processes the application automatically for most cases.

Documents Required

Business Identity

  • PAN Card of Company/LLP/Firm
  • Certificate of Incorporation / GST Certificate
  • Address proof of registered office

Authorized Signatory

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Bank Details

  • Cancelled cheque of current account
  • Bank certificate with account details
  • IFSC code

Post-Registration Compliance

Annual Update on DGFT Portal

Although IEC is lifetime valid, businesses must update/confirm their IEC details annually on the DGFT portal to keep it active.

RBI Reporting

Payments received in foreign currency must be reported to RBI through your bank within prescribed timelines.

Export Documentation

Maintain shipping bills, invoices, packing lists, and export realization certificates for each export transaction.

DGFT Schemes

Avail RODTEP, Advance Authorization, EPCG and other export promotion schemes using your IEC number.

Common Questions

Everything you need to know

Yes, IEC is required for service exports as well, particularly when receiving foreign remittance for services provided to overseas clients.

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